How You Can Keep Houston Strong

Although it has been a few weeks since Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc on Houston and surrounding areas, there is still so much work to be done to repair our wonderful city and help make its inhabitants whole again. For some, life has somewhat returned to normal but many others are still in dire need. It is important not to forget our fellow Houstonians and continue to keep Houston strong by doing our part.

With that said, if you are still looking for ways to help those impacted most by Hurricane Harvey, here are a few ideas.

The Houston Food Bank
Houston is home to the largest food bank in America and with their massive warehouse, the possibilities to volunteer are endless. You can volunteer at the warehouse or in the kitchen helping to prepare meals. Donations are also accepted and Houston Restaurant Week has been extended through the end of September with a portion of the proceeds going to the Houston Food Bank. Dine out and explore some of Houston’s best restaurants while also helping a great cause.

The Montrose Center
While The Montrose Center has moved away from immediate response donations (groceries, household goods, etc.) there is still a need for longer term assistance from individuals. They are looking for skilled professionals to assist with legal issues, clinical services and counselors.

United Way of Greater Houston
The United Way of Greater Houston is looking to place volunteers with agencies to help flood victims as well as accepting donations that will be distributed out to their partners.

Animal Shelters
Humans weren’t the only ones affected by the hurricane, many pets and animals were displaced and now in shelters. Shelters like the Houston SPCA, the Houston Humane Society, BARC, and Friends For Life are just a few places looking for help. And now is as good of time as ever to foster or adopt that dog or cat you’ve been thinking about.

Gallery Furniture
Gallery Furniture is accepting cleaning supplies to help those trying to clean up the mess Harvey left behind. Items like Clorox, brooms, soap, trash bags, gloves, buckets, mops and much more are accepted at the 6006 North Freeway and 7227 West Grand Parkway locations.

The Salvation Army
Looking to get rid of some household appliances or old clothing? The Salvation Army is a great way to donate these items and help hurricane victims who unfortunately lost everything in the flood. They are also always looking for volunteers to help distribute meals and drinks.

Harvey Relief Fund
You can always donate to Mayor Sylvester Turner’s Hurricane relief fund. Other funds have also been set up around town to benefit those in specific industries who suffered significant loss. Southern Smoke is raising money for those affected in the food and beverage industry and the Visit Houston Relief Fund is geared toward assisting those in the hospitality industry. Meanwhile the Harvey Arts Recovery fund is raising money to help those in Houston's creative community.

For more ideas, the Houston Volunteer website is still being updated with shelters and organizations that need volunteers and assistance.